What are the Qualifications for Assisted Living Facilities?

Quick Overview

• Assisted living is designed for seniors who need help with daily activities but not full-time medical care 
• Eligibility is based on health, cognitive needs, and level of independence 
• A clinical assessment helps determine the appropriate level of care 
• Acts communities offer a full continuum of care for evolving needs 

What is Assisted Living?

Assisted living is a type of long-term care for older adults who need help with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, or medication management, while maintaining as much independence as possible. Residents in assisted living do not require the 24/7 medical care typically associated with a nursing homes or skilled nursing care.  
 
At Acts Retirement-Life Communities, assisted living is designed to provide personalized support in a comfortable, engaging environment within a full-service retirement community. 
 

What is the Criteria for Assisted Living?

To ensure we provide the right level of care for each resident, Acts uses a comprehensive evaluation process. The assisted living qualifications include:

1. Health and Functional Assessment

Each prospective resident completes a clinical evaluation conducted by our health services team. This evaluation focuses on Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including:

• Bathing
• Dressing
• Eating
• Mobility
• Toileting
• Medication management

Individuals who need assistance with one or more of these activities, but do not need intensive medical care, are typically good candidates for assisted living.

Assisted living facilities may also use ADL needs to determine level of care, ensuring residents receive the right amount of daily support. 

2. Cognitive Evaluation

Senior with mild memory loss or early-stage dementia may still be appropriate for assisted living. Those with advanced cognitive impairment may benefit from a dedicated memory care program, which Acts also offers in some locations.

3. Medical Stability

Applicants should be medically stable, meaning any chronic conditions are well-managed and do not require continuous medical supervision.

Assisted living communities are designed for supportive, not acute, care. Individuals who need 24/7 medical attention, complex wound care, or specialized equipment may be better suited for skilled nursing services. 

4. Mobility and Safety

Most assisted living residents can move independently or with minimal assistance, such as using a walker.

If an individual requires extensive physical assistance, such as support from multiple caregivers for transfers, it may indicate a need for a higher level of care like skilled nursing. This helps ensure resident safety and an appropriate level of support. 

5. Age Requirements  

Most assisted living communities serve older adults, typically age 62 or older, though eligibility may vary slightly by location.

Age guidelines help ensure residents share similar lifestyles and community experiences, contributing to a more engaging and supportive environment. 

Who May Not Qualify for Assisted Living?

Assisted living may not be the best fit for individuals who:

• Require continuous medical care or supervision 
• Have complex or unstable medical conditions 
• Need assistance from multiple caregivers for mobility 
• Require specialized treatments such as feeding tubes or advanced wound care 

In these cases, skilled nursing or other care options may be more appropriate.

How Are Assisted Living Criteria Determined?  

Assisted living communities are regulated at the state level, and each community may have slightly different admissions criteria.

These guidelines help ensure that every resident receives appropriate care while maintaining a safe and balanced environment for the entire community.

How is Assisted Living Paid for?

Assisted living services are typically paid for using a combination of personal financial resources and long-term planning. Common payment sources include:

• Personal savings, retirement income, and investments 
• Long-term care insurance 
• Proceeds from the sale of a home 

As part of the admissions process, communities may review financial information to help ensure care remains sustainable over time.

At Acts Retirement-Life Communities, assisted living may be accessed through a type of Acts Life Care^® contract, which offers lifetime housing and access to a full continuum of care.  

In this scenario, an older adult moves to campus for independent living, and can transition into assisted living or skilled nursing care as needed, if needed. Direct admittance to assisted living is also available. During the application process, financial eligibility is reviewed to ensure long-term affordability of care under this model.  

What is the Assisted Living Admissions Process?

Before moving in, prospective residents complete a physical and cognitive assessment. This helps determine care needs and develop a personalized plan. Assessments may include:

• Review of medical history and current conditions 
• Medication review 
• Cognitive and mental health evaluation 
• Functional assessment of daily living abilities 

In some cases, such as after a hospital stay, this process may involve coordination with healthcare providers or case managers. Residents are also reassessed periodically to ensure their care plan continues to meet their needs over time

If you or your loved one may benefit from assisted living, the next step is to talk to an expert at one of our Acts communities. Our care team will conduct the necessary evaluations and help determine the most appropriate level of support.

What Documentation May Be Required?

• Medical history and physical exam results
• List of medications
• Physician’s orders or recommendations
• Health insurance information
• Financial documentation (for Life Care contract review)

Why Choose Assisted Living at Acts?

Acts offers a nationally respected approach to senior care. Our assisted living services are:

• Provided by compassionate, licensed caregivers
• Tailored to individual needs
• Located within beautiful, resort-style campuses
• Part of a full continuum of care for seamless transitions over time 
• Focused on preserving dignity, independence, and quality of life  

Learn More About Assisted Living at Acts

To learn more about what the qualifications for assisted living are at Acts or to speak with a care coordinator, please contact us. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your future.